Retail Therapy
Good Eats & Tasty Treats
STORY BY BENJAMIN LERNER PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANDI MARIE PHOTO COURTESY OF DOWNTOWN RUTLAND PARTNERSHIP
Retail Therapy
Downtown Rutland boasts a delightful array of shops that cater to diverse tastes and interests . Begin your shopping adventure at Bookmobile on Center Street , where a vast collection of used books mingles with a sprinkling of new titles , unique cards , and gifts . Venture over to Camille ’ s on Merchants Row for consignment treasures and vintage finds that promise a unique shopping experience .
If antiques are your passion , the Curiosity Shop on Merchants Row provides an ever-changing selection of used furniture , collectibles , crafts , and re-purposed items . For those looking to add a touch of sparkle to their lives , Diamonds & More on Center Street and Freeman Marcus Jewelers on Merchants Row present an exquisite selection of jewelry and repair services .
Fashion enthusiasts will adore Divine on Center Street , where comfort meets luxury , and Fruition Fineries on Merchants Row , known for its fine women ’ s clothing , handbags , and accessories . For the cycling aficionados , Down Valley Bikes and Apparel on Merchants Row is a haven for dedicated mountain bike services and gear .
Game lovers should not miss Draw Go Games on Evelyn Street , Rutland ’ s friendly neighborhood game store stocking everything from Magic the Gathering to Dungeons & Dragons . “ It ’ s wonderful to have such a great place where people can come together and enjoy their favorite games ,” says Issente . For a unique shopping experience , Mountain Music on Center Street offers silver jewelry , vinyl records , and vintage audio equipment , capturing the essence of Rutland ’ s eclectic vibe .
Book lovers can immerse themselves in Phoenix Books Rutland on Center Street , proudly serving book enthusiasts with a wide range of titles and hosting engaging author events and poetry readings . “ Phoenix Books is a beloved bookstore that really brings the community together ,” notes Issente . The wellness seekers will find solace at Pyramid Holistic Wellness Center on Merchants Row , offering a Himalayan Salt Cave , which was the first public salt cave built in the US , as well as sound healing and reiki services , amethyst biomat & infrared sauna . The Wellness Center also offers seven innovative immersion meditation rooms using light , sound , color , and vibration for a personal journey within , along with wellness products .
For those who appreciate specialty markets , Giuseppe ’ s Italian Market on Center Street sells imported goods , wine , and ready-to-eat meals that will transport you straight to Italy . At GreenSpell Plant Shop on Center Street , you ’ ll find everything from exotic houseplants to handmade planters , making it a perfect stop for plant enthusiasts .
If you ’ re a fan of unique art supplies , Kaleidoscope Art Supply on Center Street is an eclectic store offering a variety of art and paper products . Meanwhile , Loose Loona Gifts + Tea House on Center Street combines a charming gift shop with a Scandinavian-inspired tea house , offering a cozy place to shop and relax .
For those seeking stylish menswear , McNeil & Reedy on Merchants Row offers a wide range of formalwear , casual clothing , and accessories . For recreational cannabis enthusiasts , Mountain Girl Cannabis on West Street is one of Vermont ’ s premier dispensaries . Puro ’ s Coins & Jewelry on Strongs Avenue caters to numismatists and collectors with its broad selection of coins , jewelry , and paper money .
The community-owned Rutland Area Food Co-op on Wales Street specializes in local , organic , and natural foods , while Wild Kind Toys on Merchants Row inspires creative play for children with its thoughtfully curated selection of engaging and sustainably-made toys . “ It ’ s incredible to see such a variety of stores that cater to everyone ’ s interests , from books to plants to vintage finds ,” says Issente .
Good Eats & Tasty Treats
When it comes to dining , Downtown Rutland offers a culinary landscape as diverse as its shops . Start your day with a visit to Last Cup Cafe on State Street , where the mission to preserve the beauty and flavor of espresso shines through every crafted beverage , served alongside a nice assortment of tasty snacks .
If you ’ re craving Mexican cuisine , Taco Fresco on Center Street serves up authentic and delicious tacos , burritos , and tamales . Roots the Restaurant on Washington Street provides an eclectic farm-to-table menu in a relaxed yet classy atmosphere , perfect for both lunch and dinner ( For more on Roots the Restaurant , see page 42 ). For a delightful bakery experience , The Pies the Limit Bakery on Strongs Avenue is a must-visit for homemade donuts and baked goods .
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